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Fore! Etiquette Lessons for Business on the Course

Posted on 05/09/2011

It’s been said that the best business deals are made on the golf course. There’s no doubt that a lot of business happens outside the office, whether it’s golf, lunch or dinner. That’s because people do business with people. A social setting gives you and your prospect the opportunity to get to know each other better, as people. Poor etiquette can turn your prospect off rather quickly so, on National Etiquette Week, we’ve compiled four etiquette tips to help you score more business.

Tee time
If you want to lose a potential customer before you even meet them, then show up late. You should respect the fact that they’ve given you precious time from their busy day to meet with you. Try to be there early if you can. If you show up late, you give the impression that you had something more important than meeting with them. If you are going to be late, let them know as soon as you can.

Flag down the beer cart
Ordering alcohol with a prospect can be a sticky situation. A formal dinner typically calls for a bottle of wine, but for lunch or on the golf course, it isn’t as easy. A good rule of thumb is to allow your guest to order their drink first. If they go for a water or soda, follow suit. If drinks are in order, remember that you are at a meeting so moderation is key.

Par for the course
The number one question most people have is, “Should I let them win?” The answer is no. Intentionally losing can be an insult to a customer, so play to your ability. A golf outing with a prospect is about building a connection. Make sure they have a good time and the business side of things will take care of itself.

Keep the club in your hand
This should go without saying, but be polite. If people are doing business with people, most don’t want to do business with a jerk. The better the personal connect you make with this prospect, the more loyal the customer will be in the long run.